What To Look For In Dog Food Ingredients [& What To Avoid]

I get it.

It can be so hard to find good quality dog food.

There are so many options and so much conflicting advice out there.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ve already spent enough time trying to ensure your dog gets the best of the best.

After trying countless dog food brands, talking to numerous vets, and doing extensive research, I’ve learned what makes good dog food. 

So, here is what you really need to look for in dog food brands, products and ingredients.

What Ingredients Are Good For Dogs In Dog Food?

Ingredients that are good for dogs include high-quality proteins (chicken, beef, fish), whole grains (brown rice, barley), vegetables (carrots, peas), healthy fats (omega-3 from fish oil), vitamins, and minerals.

Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient for dogs.

It plays a crucial role in their overall health and development, including muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function.

As a dog owner, paying special attention to the protein sources in your dog’s food is important.

Here’s a more in-depth look at why protein is so important and what to look for:

Why Is Protein Important?

Dogs, especially growing puppies and active adults, need a good amount of protein in their diet.

Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, are essential for various bodily functions, such as:

1. Building and repairing muscles, skin, and fur
2. Producing hormones and enzymes
3. Supporting a healthy immune system

Since dogs can’t produce all the necessary amino acids on their own, they need to get them from their diet. That’s where high-quality protein sources come in.

High-Quality Protein Sources

When choosing dog food, pay close attention to the protein sources listed on the label.

High-quality protein sources are easier for your dog to digest and provide a better balance of essential amino acids. Here are some examples of excellent protein sources to look for:

• Real meat: Chicken, beef, fish, turkey, and lamb are all great sources of protein. Look for these ingredients listed as the first ingredient on the label.
• Eggs: Eggs are a highly digestible and complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids your dog needs.
• Organ meats: Organ meats, such as liver and kidney, are rich in protein and packed with nutrients that can benefit your dog’s health.

What Protein To Avoid

Not all protein sources are created equal.

Here are some ingredients you’ll want to avoid when looking at protein in dog food:

• Meat by-products or meat meals: These are lower-quality protein sources, often made from leftover parts of animals that are not considered suitable for human consumption. They may contain less protein and more indigestible material, which can be harder for your dog to process.
• Unidentified meat or poultry: If the label doesn’t specify the type of meat (e.g., “meat meal” or “poultry by-product”), it’s best to avoid it. These ingredients can be made from a variety of low-quality sources and may not provide the necessary nutrients for your dog.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are an important component of your dog’s diet, providing them with the energy they need for their daily activities.

While dogs don’t require carbs as a primary source of energy like humans do, including the right types of carbs in their diet can offer numerous health benefits.

Let’s dive deeper into carbohydrates and learn what to look for when choosing a dog food.

The Role of Carbohydrates In Your Dog’s Diet

In addition to energy, carbs also offer other health benefits, such as:

1. Aiding in digestion: Fiber, a type of carbohydrate, helps maintain a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
2. Supporting brain function: Some carbs, like whole grains, provide essential nutrients that help support your dog’s cognitive function.

Good Carbohydrate Sources

When looking for a dog food that includes healthy carbohydrates, focus on whole, unprocessed ingredients that are easy to digest and provide essential nutrients.

Some examples of good carbohydrate sources include:

• Whole grains: Brown rice, barley, and oats are all examples of whole grains that provide a good balance of nutrients and are gentle on your dog’s digestive system.
• Gluten-free options: If your dog has a sensitivity to gluten, consider dog foods that use gluten-free grains like quinoa or millet, or starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes and peas.
• Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and veggies, such as apples, carrots, and pumpkins, provide natural sources of carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Carbohydrates to Avoid

While some carbohydrates are beneficial, others may not offer the same health benefits and can even cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Here are a few types of carbohydrates to avoid:

• Refined grains: Ingredients like white rice, white flour, and cornmeal are examples of refined grains that have been stripped of their nutrients and fiber, making them less beneficial for your dog.
• Corn, wheat, and soy: These ingredients are common allergens and can be difficult for some dogs to digest, leading to gastrointestinal issues and food sensitivities.
• Artificial additives and fillers: Some dog foods may include artificial ingredients or fillers like corn syrup, which offer little to no nutritional value and can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.

Fats

Fats play a critical role in your dog’s diet, providing energy, supporting nutrient absorption, and maintaining healthy skin and coat.

However, not all fats are created equal, and it’s important to know which ones are beneficial and which to avoid.

Let’s delve deeper into the world of fats and learn what to look for in your dog’s food.

The Benefits of Good Fats

Healthy fats offer numerous benefits for your canine companion, such as:

1. Energy: Fats are a concentrated source of energy, providing more than double the calories per gram compared to proteins and carbohydrates.
2. Nutrient absorption: Fats help your dog absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are essential for various bodily functions.
3. Skin and coat health: Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin, reducing the likelihood of dryness, itching, and irritation.
4. Brain function: Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, play an important role in cognitive development and brain function.

Healthy Fat Sources

When looking for a dog food that includes healthy fats, focus on high-quality, natural sources that balance essential fatty acids.

Some examples of good fat sources include:

1. Animal fats: High-quality animal fats, like chicken fat or salmon oil, are easily digestible and provide a good balance of essential fatty acids.
2. Plant-based oils: Oils derived from plants, such as flaxseed oil or olive oil, can also be a good source of healthy fats, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
3. Fish oil: Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support your dog’s overall health.

Fats to Avoid

While some fats are beneficial, others can be harmful and should be avoided. Here are a few types of fats to watch out for:

1. Low-quality animal fats: Avoid generic or unspecified fats like “animal fat” or “poultry by-product fat,” as these can come from low-quality sources and may not provide the necessary nutrients for your dog.
2. Hydrogenated oils: These oils have been chemically altered to improve their shelf life but can be harmful to your dog’s health. Avoid dog foods that contain hydrogenated oils or trans fats.
3. Artificial additives: Some dog foods may include artificial ingredients or preservatives, such as BHA or BHT, which can be harmful to your dog’s health in the long run.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals help regulate various bodily functions, from maintaining a strong immune system to supporting bone health.

Let’s explore the importance of vitamins and minerals in your dog’s diet and what to look for in their food.

The Role of Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients that your dog needs in small amounts for various functions, such as:

1. Immune system support: Vitamins like A, C, and E, along with minerals like zinc and selenium, help strengthen your dog’s immune system and protect against illness and infection.
2. Bone and joint health: Calcium and phosphorus are crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, while vitamin D aids in calcium absorption. Adequate levels of these nutrients are especially important for growing puppies and large breed dogs.
3. Metabolic function: B vitamins, like B6, B12, and niacin, play an essential role in energy metabolism, helping your dog’s body break down and utilize the food they eat.
4. Antioxidant protection: Vitamins C and E, along with minerals like manganese and copper, act as antioxidants, protecting your dog’s cells from damage caused by free radicals.

What To Look for in Dog Food

When choosing a dog food, it’s essential to ensure it provides a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals to support your pup’s overall health.

Here are some things to consider:

1. Natural sources: High-quality dog foods will include natural sources of vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These ingredients provide essential nutrients and offer additional health benefits like fiber and antioxidants.
2. Mineral balance: It’s important to consider the balance of minerals in your dog’s food, particularly calcium and phosphorus. An appropriate ratio of these minerals is crucial for maintaining strong bones and preventing issues like hip dysplasia or bone deformities, especially in growing puppies.
3. Added supplements: In some cases, dog foods may include added vitamins and minerals in the form of supplements. While this can help ensure your dog gets the nutrients they need, choosing a reputable brand that uses high-quality supplements is essential to avoid potential issues with over-supplementation or imbalances.

Vitamins and Minerals to Avoid

While most vitamins and minerals are essential for your dog’s health, some can be harmful in excessive amounts.

Choosing a dog food that provides a balanced blend of nutrients and avoids over-supplementation is crucial.

Some examples of vitamins and minerals to watch out for include:

1. Vitamin A: While essential for your dog’s health, excessive amounts of vitamin A can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms like joint pain, anorexia, and weight loss.
2. Vitamin D: Too much vitamin D can also be toxic, leading to issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and bone deformities.

Fiber

Fiber might not be the star of the show when it comes to your dog’s diet, but it plays a crucial role in supporting their digestive health.

Dietary fiber comes from plant-based ingredients and is not digested by your dog’s body.

Instead, it provides bulk to their stool and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.

Let’s take a closer look at the importance of fiber in your dog’s diet and what to look for in their food.

The Benefits of Fiber

Fiber offers various health benefits for your canine companion, such as:

1. Digestive support: Fiber helps regulate your dog’s bowel movements, preventing issues like diarrhea and constipation. It also promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthy digestive system.
2. Weight management: Fiber can help your dog feel full, reducing the risk of overeating and weight gain. It’s particularly helpful for dogs prone to obesity or those on a weight loss plan.
3. Blood sugar regulation: Fiber can help slow down the absorption of sugar in your dog’s bloodstream, making it beneficial for dogs with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

What Fiber Look for in Dog Food

When choosing a dog food that includes a healthy amount of fiber, focus on natural, whole food sources that provide additional nutrients and health benefits.

Some examples of good fiber sources include:

1. Whole grains: Brown rice, barley, and oats are all examples of whole grains that provide a good balance of nutrients and fiber.
2. Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and veggies, such as apples, carrots, and pumpkins, not only provide natural sources of fiber but also offer essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
3. Legumes: Peas, lentils, and beans are also great sources of fiber, and they provide additional protein and essential nutrients.

Fiber Sources to Avoid

While some fiber sources are beneficial, others may not offer the same health benefits and can even cause digestive issues in some dogs.

Here are a few types of fiber sources to avoid:

1. Refined grains: Ingredients like white rice, white flour, and cornmeal are examples of refined grains that have been stripped of their nutrients and fiber, making them less beneficial for your dog.
2. Artificial additives: Some dog foods, such as cellulose, may include artificial ingredients or fillers to increase fiber content. These ingredients offer little to no nutritional value and may not provide the same health benefits as natural fiber sources.

The Right Ratio: Balancing Protein, Fats, Carbs, Vitamins/Minerals, and Fiber in Dog Food

Just like us, our canine companions require a balanced diet to maintain optimal health.

Striking the right balance of protein, fats, carbs, vitamins and minerals, and fiber in your dog’s food is crucial for their overall well-being.

While the ideal ratio might vary based on factors like age, breed, activity level, and specific health conditions, here’s a general guideline to help you choose a well-balanced dog food.

Protein

Protein should make up a significant portion of your dog’s diet, as it’s essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function.

Look for a dog food that contains at least 18% protein for adult dogs and 22% protein for puppies, according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines.

Active or working dogs may require even more protein to support their increased energy needs.

Fats

Fats are a concentrated source of energy and should be included in moderation in your dog’s diet.

The AAFCO recommends a minimum of 5% fat for adult dogs and 8% fat for puppies.

However, this can vary depending on your dog’s specific needs, such as their activity level or any health conditions they may have.

Carbohydrates

While dogs don’t require carbohydrates as their primary energy source, they can still benefit from the inclusion of healthy carbs in their diet.

Carbohydrates should make up the remaining portion of your dog’s diet after accounting for protein and fat content.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals should be included in balanced amounts to support various bodily functions.

Look for dog foods that derive these essential nutrients from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

A good dog food will meet the AAFCO’s established nutrient profiles for your dog’s life stage.

Fiber

Fiber is essential for maintaining your dog’s digestive health, and it should be included in their diet at an appropriate level.

The AAFCO recommends a minimum of 1.4% crude fiber for adult dogs and 3% crude fiber for puppies.

However, some dogs may benefit from slightly higher fiber levels, particularly those with specific health conditions like diabetes or weight management concerns.

Brands That Focus On the Highest Quality Dog Food Ingredients

Now that you know what to look for in dog food ingredients, here are a couple of my favorite brands that prioritize high-quality ingredients:

Sundays for Dogs

Sundays for Dogs is a game-changer in the dog food industry. 

They offer air-dried, human-grade dog food made with premium ingredients like free-range, grass-fed beef, organic fruits and vegetables, and superfoods like turmeric and coconut oil. 

Their recipes are grain-free and don’t use artificial preservatives or fillers. 

Plus, the air-drying process helps retain the nutrients in the ingredients, making it a top choice for your pup’s nutrition.

Take a closer look at Sundays for Dogs

Just Food For Dogs

Just Food For Dogs is another fantastic brand that puts your dog’s health first. 

Their meals are made from scratch using whole food ingredients and are cooked in small batches to ensure quality and safety. 

They even have a team of veterinarians and nutritionists who develop their recipes to cater to your dog’s specific needs.

With options like beef, russet potato, chicken, and white rice, you’ll surely find a meal your pup will love.

Take a closer look at Just Food for Dogs

Finally

In a nutshell, you want to focus on dog foods that contain optimal protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins/minerals, and fiber sources.

All in the right ratio.

With brands like Sundays for Dogs and Just Food For Dogs, you can rest easy knowing your dog is getting the best nutrition possible.

Related Questions

Related guides you may want to read:

• 11 Ingredients To Avoid In Dog Food [& The Ones To Look For Instead]
• What Dog Food Brands To Avoid [And The 2 You Must Consider Instead]